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Description
Erica Guthriei is a shrub plant that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa and is commonly found in the fynbos biome. This plant is also known as the “Bakoven Heath” or “Cape Erica”. It grows up to 50cm in height and has small, narrow leaves that are about 1cm long. The flowers of Erica Guthriei are pink or white in color and bloom from July to October.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Erica |
Appearance
Erica Guthriei is a beautiful plant that adds color to any garden. It has small, narrow leaves that are green in color and about 1cm long. The flowers of this plant are pink or white in color and bloom from July to October. The flowers are tubular and have five petals. Erica Guthriei grows up to 50cm in height and has an upright growth habit. This plant is a great choice for rock gardens or as a container plant.
Care Guide
Erica Guthriei requires well-draining soil, regular watering, and full sun to partial shade. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. This plant is hardy to USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erica Guthriei is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and root rot. To prevent these pests and diseases, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and is not overwatered. If pests are present, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Erica Guthriei is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa and is commonly found in the fynbos biome. It grows in well-draining soil in areas with full sun to partial shade. This plant thrives in areas with Mediterranean climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erica Guthriei a drought-tolerant plant?
A: No, Erica Guthriei requires regular watering and cannot tolerate drought conditions.
Q: Can Erica Guthriei be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Erica Guthriei can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: What is the best time to prune Erica Guthriei?
A: Prune Erica Guthriei after it has finished blooming in the fall.
Q: How often should Erica Guthriei be fertilized?
A: Fertilize Erica Guthriei once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Erica arborea
- Erica carnea
- Erica cinerea
- Erica tetralix
References
- “Erica Guthriei.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2016, http://pza.sanbi.org/erica-guthriei.
- “Erica Guthriei.” Gardenia.net, Tropicos, 2021, https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/erica-guthriei.
- “Erica Guthriei.” Pacific Horticulture Society, 2007, https://www.pacifichorticulture.org/articles/erica-guthriei/.
